Breakfast Grits Bowl Recipe

Bring 3 cups water and 1 cup whole milk to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Slowly whisk in 1 cup stone-ground grits, reduce heat to low so the mixture barely simmers, and cover partially with a lid to prevent splatter.

Cook, stirring frequently (every 2–3 minutes) to prevent sticking, until grits are thick and tender, about 20–25 minutes for stone-ground grits (adjust time per package if using quick grits). If the mixture becomes too thick, add up to 1/2 cup extra water or milk to reach desired creaminess.

When grits are tender, stir in 2 tbs unsalted butter, 2 tbs cream cheese, 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper until smooth and fully incorporated. Keep warm on lowest heat setting, stirring occasionally.

While grits cook, place 4 slices thick-cut bacon in a cold skillet spaced in a single layer. Turn heat to medium and cook, flipping occasionally, until crisp and browned, about 8–12 minutes depending on thickness.

Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces and reserve on a small plate.

Eggs Your Way (recommended: over-easy or sunny-side)

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low. Add 1 tbs butter and let it melt and foam but not brown.

Crack 2 large eggs into the skillet. For sunny-side, cook gently until whites are set and yolks still runny, about 2–3 minutes; for over-easy, cook until whites set, then carefully flip and cook 10–20 seconds more for runny yolk.

Season eggs with 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) black pepper. Remove from pan and keep warm.

Divide the warm creamy grits between two bowls (about 1/2 cup cooked grits per serving as base; adjust to preference).

Sprinkle the chopped bacon evenly over the grits.

Nestle the two eggs on top of the grits and bacon.

Scatter 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar over the hot grits and eggs so it melts slightly.

Garnish with 1 tbs chopped chives if using. Serve immediately with house salsa on the side (about 2 tbs per bowl) if you want a bright, spicy kick.